Unions warn they will launch Royal Mail strike ballot next month

The first nationwide postal strike for four years edged a step closer today as
union leaders warned they would hold a ballot next month unless Royal Mail
chiefs make a string of concessions of working terms and conditions.

Royal Mail last month offered postal staff an 8.6 per cent pay rise, spread over three yearsPhoto: Getty Images

More than 500 representatives of the Commununcation Workers Union (CWU) "voted unanimously" in favour of holding a ballot of 115,000 employees - the first ballot for strike action since 2009.

The row threatens the Government's plans to float Royal Mail. Business minister Michael Fallon insists Royal Mail needs external funding through an IPO or part sale within the current financial year.

Union chiefs claim Royal Mail first need to offer far more security over terms, conditions and pensions.

Dave Ward, CWU deputy general secretary, today said: "The current situation cannot go on. Postal workers are being squeezed in their workplaces, facing an uncertain future and changes to their pensions.

"There hasn't yet been a pay rise for staff this year despite healthy company profits of £403 million.

"But most importantly we want protections for job security and terms and conditions and these are sadly lacking."

He added: "We do not take decisions to hold a strike ballot lightly. However, we will stop at nothing to ensure the future of our members' jobs - and of the services they deliver - are protected."

Royal Mail last month offered postal staff an 8.6 per cent pay rise, spread over three years. But union chiefs dismissed the offer out of hand, and called for more security to staff pensions. They claim the Royal Mail is drawing up plans to change the pension scheme which will hit the savings pots of tens of thousands of staff.

Mr Fallon has urged postal workers to accept the pay offer, and called on Royal Mail and union chiefs to agree a "peace deal".

The CWU in June claimed 99 per cent of postal workers backed its position on pay and that 96 per cent of staff were opposed to privatisation.

Mr Ward said the Royal Mail had only begun to "seriously negotiate" with the union after the results of the poll were released.

Royal Mail today said it was "disappointed" the CWU intends to call for a national ballot. A spokesman said: "A highly competitive pay offer and agreement has been proposed to the CWU and has been rejected.

"Talks are ongoing and we are committed to seeking an agreement. We believe that a ballot on strike action is inappropriate."